Philadelphia Inquirer blogs breaking news

Posted by Emma Heald on January 22, 2009 at 10:24 AM

Knight Digital Media Center published an interview with Philadelphia Inquirer executive editor of online news Chris Krewson on the Inquirer's breaking news blog, From the Source. The idea for the blog came in late 2008, and it features brief stories and AP Alert-style notices.

Krewson explained that reporters frequently had information that news was happening but didn't know what the story was yet, and that posting news in a blog format "helped us get over the mental hurdle that 'we didn't have enough for a story.'" If a story develops and calls for a comprehensive write through, then it will be moved off the blog.

From the Source is now the third most read blog on Philly.com and Krewson commented that he was "glad we're trying this approach to the news; the rapid-updating feels like a much more "web" way to cover news.

The Philadelphia Inquirer was criticised last year for its decision to publish "signature investigative reporting, enterprise, trend stories, news features, and reviews" online only after they have been published in print. However reporters were urged to continue to publish breaking news online, and From the Source provides further encouragement.

Source: Knight Digital Media Center